Importance of Water

Basic Nutrients Unit

The Importance of Water It is necessary for an individual to drink 6-8 cups of water

daily and more if participating in sports or exercising. Water is the most critical nutrient for sustaining life. Two-thirds of the human body is water. Water makes up 60% of your total body weight and 70%

of your muscles; raw meat is about 75% water and fruits and vegetables up to 95% water.

It may take us weeks to starve, but only a very few days to dehydrate. About 3/4 of our water is contained within individual cells.

Of the rest, most is fluid surrounding the cells, with a small amount in the blood plasma.

The Importance of Water Outside the cells, water is a means of transporting

nutrients and wastes, a physical cushion, a lubricant.

When exhaled or perspired, water removes excess heat energy from the body.

Within the cell, it is the solvent in which all chemical interactions occur.

Water is not represented on My Pyramid because the U.S.D.A. assumes people in the United States will drink adequate amounts of water.

Adequate hydration is important for normal health and for increased activity.

The Importance of Water Man is the only animal that will restrict fluid

intake. Thirst is one way your body tell you to drink

water, however if you are thirsty, you are already dehydrated.

Beverages containing caffeine are also dehydrating.

Fluid replacement products are promoted as sources of fluid as well as sodium, potassium and carbohydrates.

Functions of Water in the Body

Water is needed in the body for many reasons. Water is used to move nutrients through the

digestive tract. Water acts as a diluter. Without sufficient water, fiber does not work. Fiber absorbs water thus allowing waste products to move freely through the digestive tract, and thus preventing toxic waste from accumulating. The more fiber and water you consume, the better for your digestive tract.

Water is a heat regulator. It helps the body temperature to stay the same, dissipating body heat through sweat.

Functions of Water in the Body

Water is needed to remove and waste products. It is the main constituent of urine. Urine is the primary route for cell waste elimination.

Water helps cushion and lubricate body joints. It protects key organs, like the brain.

Water also has a role in senses: fluid in the eyes for vision, fluid in the ears for hearing, fluids for taste and smell to function.

Functions of Water in the Body

Depending on the climate where you live, your body requires 6-8 cups of water a day. Our bodies get fluids from what we drink, and foods we eat.

When the body loses water, dehydration occurs, stressing the heart and blood vessels and increasing the heart rate and body temperature.

Water is stored in several body compartments and moves back and forth between them. 60-70% of body fluid is found in body cells.